Camby thrilled on trade home

HOUSTON — Nearly seven years after he built his dream home in Pearland, Marcus Camby was able to say the words he always hoped would apply to his career.

“It feels good to be home,” Camby said before boarding the Rockets flight to Los Angeles, less than 24 hours after he was acquired from the Portland Trail Blazers. “I’m excited about our chances to be in the playoff race right now, and I’m ready to go.”

In the final season of his contract and about to turn 38 next week, now that he finally made it to Houston, Camby did not plan to leave. He said he wanted to play four more seasons and finish his career with the Rockets.

”I built a big house down here in Pearland,” Camby said. “My kids love it here. I always said when I was building my house that I would like to finish my career down here. Hopefully it will go further than just these last couple months of the season.”

With just 22 games left this season, he said he has “a lot” left.

“I want to play 20-plus years,” said Camby, who in his 16th NBA season. “That’s the goal. That’s what I keep telling my body every year.”

The Rockets did not have such long-term plans for the other player acquired in Thursday’s trade deadline deals, veteran guard Derek Fisher.

Rockets general manager Daryl Morey did not mention Fisher when talking about the moves and would not comment about any plans for Fisher, indicating the Rockets could buy out the $3.4 million player option for next season remaining on Fisher’s contract. The Rockets spoke with the agent for free agent guard Anthony Carter, who played for Rockets coach Kevin McHale in Minnesota, on Thursday.

The Rockets did, however, open another roster spot by waiving forward Terrence Williams. Acquired for a first-round pick last season, Williams had never secured a consistent spot in the rotation.

In recent weeks, he missed a practice a day after he began playing because of his strong play in practices, and missed Wednesday’s pregame walk-through.

Morey said Williams was waived to give him an opportunity to play elsewhere, but indicated he would be making additions to the roster.